These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are like a party on a plate! Brownies topped with sweet strawberries and a rich chocolate drizzle make for a yummy treat.
Honestly, the mix of fudgy brownie and fresh berries is magic. I serve these at special gatherings, and they always make everyone smile. Who can resist that combo? 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the salt in your brownies. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using coconut oil or applesauce for a lighter twist!
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the right sweetness and texture. For a healthier alternative, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia, but it might alter the taste slightly.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for that rich chocolate flavor. You can substitute it with Dutch-process cocoa for a mellower taste, or use carob powder for a caffeine-free option.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are perfect for this recipe, but you can swap them for raspberries or blueberries if you prefer other berries or if strawberries aren’t in season.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are tasty, but milk chocolate is an option for those who like it sweeter. Dark chocolate chips provide a richer flavor if you prefer something bolder.
How Can I Ensure My Brownies Are Moist and Chewy?
The secret to moist, chewy brownies lies in the mixing and baking. Here’s how to get it right:
- Don’t overmix the batter; just combine the dry ingredients until you can’t see flour. Overmixing can result in cakey brownies.
- Be careful with oven time; check your brownies a few minutes before the recommended bake time. The toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This allows them to set and makes cutting easier.
Keeping an eye on the baking time and being gentle with the batter are the keys to delicious, gooey brownies!
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For The Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate (for covering strawberries)
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for drizzle)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need 25-30 minutes for baking the brownies. After baking, let them cool completely, which takes around 30 minutes. In total, plan for about 1 hour of active time and cooling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it to prevent the brownies from sticking. This step ensures that your brownies will come out nice and easy!
2. Create the Brownie Batter:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s completely melted, take it off the heat and stir in the granulated sugar until it’s mixed well. Let this mixture cool down a bit before you add the eggs—one at a time—mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract for a lovely flavor.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Slowly mix these dry ingredients into your butter and sugar mixture until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix; you want to keep those brownies nice and fudgy!
4. Bake the Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, use a toothpick—insert it into the center and if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
5. Cool and Top:
Once baked, take the brownies out of the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This will take around 30 minutes. After they cool, arrange the sliced strawberries evenly on top of the brownies, creating a beautiful layer of fruit.
6. Drizzle with Chocolate:
While your brownies are cooling, it’s time to melt the dark chocolate. You can do this in the microwave (just go for 30 seconds at a time, stirring until smooth) or use a double boiler. Once melted, drizzle the chocolate over the strawberries in a fun zigzag pattern. For an extra touch of sweetness, you can also melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle those on top too!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the chocolate drizzle set for a bit, then cut your brownies into squares. Serve these tasty Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies at your next gathering or enjoy them as a special treat just for you!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if needed. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before slicing to prevent soggy brownies.
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they will last about a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months!
What Can I Use Instead of Butter?
If you need a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute melted coconut oil or plant-based margarine for unsalted butter. The flavor might vary slightly, so pick a substitute that you enjoy!
How Do I Cut Brownies Cleanly?
For clean cuts, make sure the brownies are completely cooled. Use a sharp, non-serrated knife and wipe it clean with a damp cloth between cuts to keep the edges nice and neat. This will help create those beautiful brownie squares!
